The Future of Internal Communication

Since the public launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, scarcely a day goes by without a news headline forewarning of mass redundancies caused by technological efficiency. But aren't there some jobs or vocations where, no matter how sophisticated technology becomes, it simply won't be able to replicate human empathy, reason and oversight? In this episode Cat, Jen and Dom chat with sociology Professor Allison Pugh of John Hopkins University, drawing on her book The Last Human Job.  They examine the role of connective labour and empathic communication in building goodwill, trust, mutuality and human connection, never more urgently needed in workplaces across the board.   About Allison Pugh Allison Pugh is Research Professor of Sociology at Johns Hopkins University, and the author of four books, most recently The Last Human Job: The Work of Connecting in a Disconnected World (Princeton 2024).   The 2024-5 Vice President of the American Sociological Association, Pugh has given more than 100 invited talks and has had visiting appointments in Australia, France and Germany.  She is a former journalist, and her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times, and other outlets.  Pugh has served as a US diplomat in Honduras, cofounded an elementary school in California, waited on tables at the US Tennis Open and was an intern at Ms. Magazine.  She and her husband have three children and live in Washington DC.   Find Allison on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-pugh-b6169467/ Allison's website: https://www.allisonpugh.com/  

Since the MacLeod report was first published in 2009, Engage for Success (EFS) has become a flourishing all-volunteer collective for those passionate about colleague engagement. A senior lecturer at Nottingham Business School, Dr. Sarah Pass is a practice-oriented academic who concentrates on employee experience and engagement. As a member of the Engage for Success (EFS) Advisory Board, she co-leads the EFS annual survey, which benchmarks the engagement levels of the UK working population. In this episode, Sarah and Jen discuss the findings of the latest EFS survey, explore the four enablers of engagement and dig into why colleague voice is so important when seeking to build motivation and goodwill at work.   About Dr Sarah Pass Dr Sarah Pass is a practice-oriented academic who concentrates on employee experience and engagement. She is a member of the Engage for Success (EFS) Advisory Board and co-leads the EFS annual survey, which benchmarks the engagement levels of the UK working population. Sarah leads EFS projects focusing on different aspects and influences of engagement in practice and is also Chair of the EFS East Midlands Area Network. Sarah is a Fellow of the RSA, an Academic Associate of the CIPD, and a member of the Involvement and Participation Association (IPA) Working Insights Group. In 2023, Sarah was ranked by HR Magazine as an Influential Thinker in HR. Sarah currently works as a Senior Lecturer at Nottingham Business School (NTU).   Find Sarah on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahpass/ Sarah at Nottingham Business School: https://www.ntu.ac.uk/staff-profiles/business/sarah-pass Engage for Success: https://engageforsuccess.org/

In 2025, workplace inclusion remains a key issue for the UK labour market. In summer 2024, the ONS reported the highest number of economically inactive people since 2012. While this label includes students and the retired, it more worryingly includes those who are unable to access the labour market due to either ill health or accessibility issues. As the working population across the Global North declines, access to employment opportunity is a social and economic issue. But too many modern workplaces are too slow redesign their hiring and employment processes to maximise inclusivity. In this episode, Dom, Jen and Cat chat with Ryan Curtis-Johnson from the Valuable500. He explains why inclusion is such a critical issue, not least when neurodivergence is on the rise. This conversation explores the opportunity for internal communication to create work cultures that boost diversity for enhanced organisational resilience.   Takeaways Inclusion is essential for a better society. The Valuable 500 aims to end disability exclusion. Businesses must navigate the fear of discussing disability. What's good for business is good for society. Inclusion should be embedded in all business practices. Neurodivergent individuals can bring unique strengths to the workplace. Organisations need to be flexible and inclusive in their policies. Diversity in problem-solving leads to better outcomes. Internal communication plays a crucial role in promoting inclusion. Sharing resources and knowledge fosters collaboration in inclusion efforts. Sharing best practices fosters inclusivity and learning. Disability should be embraced, not feared. Inclusion must be inherent in organisational behavior. Internal communicators play a vital role in promoting accessibility. Training on accessibility is essential for all employees. Care in communication can address societal challenges. Celebrating diversity can change negative perceptions. All employees should be allies for inclusivity. Inclusivity is a long journey that requires commitment. +++++ Find Ryan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-curtis-johnson-b2233330/ The Valuable 500: https://www.thevaluable500.com/

With so many pressing environmental and social challenges to address, workplace activism is on the rise. Concerned citizens are increasingly using whatever means they have – whether as consumers, shareholders, or increasingly now, workers – to raise awareness and effect change for the issues that matter to them. This has dynamic consequences for business. Organisations must work out how best to respond to colleagues who bring social and environmental justice issues to work. Those that refuse to listen to the concerns of their staff face disengagement, or worse, mutiny. How can – and should - leaders shift from traditionally hierarchical ways of thinking about the views and opinions of their workers towards leveraging and integrating those views for the benefit of all? In this episode, Jen, Dom and Cat speak to Megan Reitz and John Higgins, co-authors of Speak Up: Say What Needs to be Said and Hear What Needs to be Heard. They explore the role of colleague voice in engagement and look at the role of internal communication in helping organisations become better equipped to hear – and leverage – the views that matter. +++++ Find Megan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganreitz/ Megan's website: https://www.meganreitz.com/ John's website: http://www.johnhigginsresearch.com

According to Mental Health UK, 90% of adults experienced high or extreme levels of stress in 2023, a figure that was consistent across all ages. The same research found 20% of people of working age needed to take time off due to poor mental health. In 2025, there are all manner of reasons why people are anxious, stressed and close to burnout. The way we work isn't working for far too many of us. But what are the signs of burnout and what support is available? What can organisations do to help colleagues better manage their workloads? And what part can internal communication play? In this episode, Jen, Cat and Dom chat with Tracey Hewett, a worklife coach and wellbeing trainer to understand the risks and how to avoid them.   Takeaways Burnout has been on the rise since the pandemic. Work-related stress is a significant issue affecting many employees. The World Health Organisation defines burnout as a syndrome from chronic workplace stress. Leisure activities are essential for recovery and should not be overlooked. Learning to say no is a powerful tool for managing workload. Organisations have a legal duty to ensure psychological health. Effective communication is key to alleviating burnout. Internal communicators can model supportive behaviours in the workplace. Recognising the signs of burnout is crucial for prevention. Self-care is essential for maintaining wellbeing in high-pressure environments. +++++ Find Tracey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traceyhewett/ Worklife Mindfulness: https://www.worklifemindfulness.com/ HSE  - employer's legal duty: https://www.hse.gov.uk/stress/overview.htm Tracey's stress audit: https://www.worklifemindfulness.com/work-related-stress-audit Tracey's blog about burnout: 19 things I learned from a stay at Burnout Hotel https://www.worklifemindfulness.com/post/things-i-learned-from-burnout          

In February 2025, the IoIC launched its AI ethics Charter for internal communication. As GenerativeAI adoption goes mainstream, there are many moral and ethical considerations that require contemplation and resolution. Its implementation requires human care, stewardship and oversight. The goal of the AI Charter is to present some of the most pressing points for organisations to reflect and agree on and to catalyse a live and ongoing membership conversation about how best to adopt AI while sustaining access to good, purposeful work for colleagues. In this conversation, we are joined by AI taskforce members Adele McIntosh and Joe McMann. As VP Internal Communication and Community for Arm (Adele) and Director of Internal and Executive Communication (EMEA) for Marriott International (Joe), they were expertly placed to help evaluate what an AI ethics Charter might include. We discuss what drew them to the taskforce and the role internal communication can play in helping organisations harness the full potential of AI. Takeaways AI is a significant part of organisational development. The AI Ethics Charter aims to address ethical and human-centered AI adoption. Internal communicators play a crucial role in AI integration. The charter will evolve as technology progresses. AI presents both risks and opportunities for organizations. Community building is essential in navigating AI challenges. Transparency and ethics are vital in AI communication. Understanding AI's impact on jobs is crucial for employee engagement. Internal communication can help demystify AI for employees. A strategic narrative around AI is necessary for effective communication. AI presents a significant opportunity for internal communicators. Maintaining human connection is crucial in the age of AI. The roles of communicators will evolve with AI integration. Authenticity and trust may be at risk with automation. Organizations must embrace AI to thrive in the future. Disengagement and loneliness are pressing issues in communication. AI can enhance efficiency but should not replace human insight. Ethical considerations are paramount in AI adoption. Communication about AI is essential to mitigate risks. Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary for success. +++++ Find Adele on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adelekmcintosh/ Find Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-mcmann-364a1b11/ Download the AI ethics Charter

AI and associated technologies are changing the work people do and the way business gets done. As work becomes increasingly digital, scant few of us can remain complacent with our current skills and expertise – we must all upskill to remain relevant and future-ready. This raises interesting questions. We are rapidly shifting away from an era where organisations trained their staff for efficiency and compliance. Instead, we must all become continuous learners – learning in the flow of work we do each day. Simply put, the skills that upheld business as usual up until now are no longer sufficient to navigate today's challenges. In this episode Cat, Jen and Dom chat with learning designer Beth Salyers to understand how we best learn and, more poignantly, what role communication plays in social learning.   Takeaways Continuous learning should be integrated into daily work. Traditional education models are outdated and need rethinking. Identity plays a crucial role in how we learn. Creating safe spaces is essential for effective learning. Learning experiences should be designed for engagement. Trusting learners is key to fostering a learning culture. Curiosity should drive our approach to learning. Organizations must meet learners where they are. Engagement is critical for effective learning outcomes. Reluctant learners can be engaged through shared agendas. Meeting people where they are is essential for effective communication. Engagement in learning is often a challenge due to preconceived notions. Curiosity is a key driver for meaningful learning experiences. Continuous learning should be integrated into the fabric of organisations. The focus should shift from skills to capabilities in learning design. Learning is inherently social and should be treated as such. Organisations must navigate the future of work with a focus on empathy and understanding. Internal communicators play a crucial role in facilitating learning. Communication strategies should guide and support continuous learning. A collaborative approach between L&D and internal communication is vital. About Beth Salyers Beth Salyers, Ph.D. is a former public school classroom teacher and current learning experience designer for social impact organisations, including for-profits, nonprofits, and schools and universities through her consulting business, Custom Learning Atelier. She knows herself and the world first and foremost through the arts and music, is a practitioner of human-centered circular design thinking methodologies, and a big soccer fan. In 2025 she's embarking on an external-facing personal creative project called #CuriosityTour2025 as a way to regeneratively navigate (another trump administration) whatever in the hell is happening in the U.S. right now. (thought I'd make you laugh).

As we enter another year of instability and uncertainty, it behoves all organisations to keep one eye on the future for successful innovation and evolution. But shifting out of survival mode to examine the long game remains a challenge for many. Horizon scanning and scenario planning to mitigate risk and leverage opportunity ought to be in every business strategist's toolkit. However, all too often boards and senior leadership teams are stressed and overwhelmed by firefighting and conflicting priorities. What are the benefits of future-gazing? In this episode, Dom, Jen and Cat chat with IoIC festival keynote speaker Rohit Talwar. They explore some underlying trends that are set to reshape business in 2025 and look at how can internal communicators help their organisations become more future-ready. Takeaways Futurists explore trends and shifts rather than predict the future. Organisations need to develop agile and adaptive mindsets. AI is a significant force that organisations must engage with. Large corporations often struggle with transformation due to their size and conservatism. The SME community is more focused on future-proofing their operations. Cultural shifts in attitudes towards work are changing organisational dynamics. The rise of generative AI is reshaping how businesses operate. Effective communication is crucial for fostering a learning culture. Organisations must prepare for uncharted territories and unknown unknowns. Budget constraints may impact internal communication and training initiatives. The demand for GenAIi prompts is increasing among professionals. Organisations must navigate the triangle of human challenges, tech opportunities, and financial pressures. Forming alliances with key stakeholders is essential for internal communicators. Spotting and promoting mindset shifts can drive innovation. Internal communicators should connect employees with organisational changes and external trends. Continuous learning is vital for personal and organisational growth. No one cares more about your future than you do. Learning helps combat fear and confusion in a complex world. Internal communication must adapt to the changing landscape of work. Highlighting successful examples of innovation can inspire others.   About Rohit Talwar Rohit Talwar is a global futurist, award-winning keynote speaker, author, and the CEO of Fast Future. He has a particular focus on helping clients develop ‘ready for anything' leadership mindsets and capabilities to understand and respond to critical forces and developments shaping the future – ranging from geo-political and economic shifts through to sustainability and disruptive technologies such as AI. His keynote speeches and immersive executive education sessions are all highly tailored to the needs and context of the client organisation.    His key current speaking topics include: Global forces, shifts, and disruptions shaping the future Futureproofing - developing ‘ready for anything' leadership The AI stepchange – accelerating insight, capability, and performance with AI. Rohit has advised over 2,000 clients in global businesses, technology providers, professional service firms, governments, international agencies, NGO's, and industry associations across a wide range of sectors in 80+ countries around the world. He uses his insights, experience, and inspirations to help clients build sustainable and future proofed organisations through virtual and in person speaking, executive education, research, consultancy, and publishing. Fast Future www.fastfuture.com Fast Future is a foresight agency led by futurist Rohit Talwar with a prime focus on helping clients explore and prepare for future shifts and uncertainties. Key services include keynote speaking, executive education, foresight research, scenario planning, strategy consultancy, event design and book publishing. Critical themes covered include leading in uncertainty, disruptive technologies such as AI, innovation and new business models, global shifts and shocks, new economic thinking, socio-demographic developments, sustainability, and the environment. Fast Future has published seven books and over 20 reports on different aspects of the emerging future.  Find Rohit on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohit-talwar-futurist-keynote-speaker/ Fast Future: https://fastfuture.com/

Have we shifted from polycrisis to permacrisis? As geopolitical tensions, extreme weather events and societal discord show no sign of abate, the pressure builds for organisations to end unsustainable business practices and reduce carbon emissions. In addition to regulatory demands, a rising tide of employee activists expect business to act as a force for good. Organisational purpose seems to have become a misappropriated buzzword in recent years, one that all-too-often lacks depth and resonance. What part can and should business play in a more equitable, well-functioning society and what role can internal communication play in bringing that to life? In this episode Jen, Dom and Cat talk with Sarah Gillard, CEO of the charity Blueprint for Better Business to hear her views on the opportunity for business to address the pressing challenges of our times.   Takeaways The role of business is to create value for society. Profit should be an outcome, not the primary goal. Human beings have inherent value and dignity. Organisations must create conditions for meaningful engagement. Navigating business decisions requires listening to diverse perspectives. Purpose and values must resonate with all employees, not just leadership. A human-centric approach unlocks creativity and innovation. Business leaders face a complex and contested landscape today. Engagement should not be imposed but discovered collectively. Rethinking purpose can lead to more authentic organisational cultures. Intent is crucial in how employees perceive organisational initiatives. Transparency in decision-making fosters trust and engagement. Organisations must shift from efficiency to adaptability to thrive. Communication plays a vital role in shaping organisational culture. Fear can stifle creativity; a growth mindset is essential. Finding meaning in work enhances motivation and engagement. Leaders should focus on what matters to them as humans. Building a listening organisation is key to internal communication. The future of work requires new skills and adaptability. Shared humanity can unite people in organisations.   About Sarah Gillard Sarah is the CEO of Blueprint for Better Business, a charity that helps businesses to be inspired and guided by a purpose that benefits society and respects people and planet. She is a passionate advocate for making business “more human” - places where people flourish, communities prosper, and long-term sustainability is the driving force. She has over 25 years' experience leading in fast-paced commercial environments at some of the UK's largest retail companies, including the John Lewis Partnership where she was responsible for rearticulating and embedding the organisation's  purpose so that it continues to be a source of inspiration, innovation, and strategic differentiation.  Sarah has a degree in PPE, is a fellow of the RSA and a Trustee of the BGF Foundation. She is a member of the Advisory Panel for the British Standards Institute on “PAS 808: a standard for purpose-driven organization”, which is being developed into an internationally-recognised ISO. Sarah is a qualified executive coach and speaks publicly on topics including purpose, leadership, organisational transformation and culture.   Find Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahgillardpurpose/ Blueprint for Better Business: https://www.blueprintforbusiness.org/  

In this first episode of 2025, Jen, Dom and Cat review their favourite conversations of 2024. They also discuss the topics, trends and themes they most want to explore in 2025, as shaped by what IoIC members have said they want to learn more about. This episode explores some of the primary risks and opportunities for internal communicators in the coming year. Tune in to hear about up and coming guests and conversations.   Follow on LinkedIn 

Deborah Hale MBE has spent her career developing high profile global campaigns. She knows the importance of building brands, navigating complex stakeholders and making change happen by creating enhanced audience engagement.   As employers across the board struggle to resume pre-pandemic levels of organisational performance, Jen, Dom and Cat chat with Deborah to hear what she has learned about creating the conditions that build loyalty and goodwill across diverse audiences. This conversation is a must-listen for any internal communicator looking to drive colleague engagement and imbue a sense of community within increasingly distributed workplaces.   Takeaways   Patience is essential in leadership and communication. Successful campaigns require thorough planning and a clear framework. Engagement is built through consistent and transparent communication. Listening to stakeholders is crucial for effective leadership. Pride in an organisation can be cultivated but not mandated. Personal touches, like handwritten notes, can significantly impact morale. Milestones should be celebrated to maintain momentum in campaigns. Campaigns can lead to movements when they resonate with the public. Cross-functional collaboration enhances the effectiveness of campaigns. Change communication must reflect the realities of employees' experiences.   About Deborah Hale MBE Deborah has a proven track record of developing high profile UK and global campaigns that achieve brand growth, awareness and audience engagement. In all her projects, her starting point is: “what is the change you want to see?” After several years spent promoting the creative industries, she became Head of International Marketing for London, in charge of positioning the capital as a centre of excellence for inward investment, tourism, education and culture. This led to her role as Producer of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays, in charge of what would become one of the UK's largest public engagement campaigns. She was awarded an MBE in the 2013 New Year's Honours List. As an independent consultant, she has worked with numerous commercial and not for profit organisations such as the Design Council, Permian Global, BBC Children in Need, and the Global Goals campaign.   Find Deborah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-hale-mbe-370bb7/

As the climate crisis worsens and social inequality escalates, legislation to monitor the sustainability efforts of organisations abounds. But mandatory reporting is often undertaken by executives who don't socialise their data in a way that helps internal stakeholders feel their employer is taking proactive steps to improve its impact. In this episode, Jen, Dom and Cat chat with strategic communications consultant Debra Sobel to learn more about the vital role of internal communication in sustainability reporting. Takeaways Sustainability is shifting from aspiration to activation and transformation. Companies must provide evidence for their sustainability claims to avoid greenwashing. Internal communicators play a crucial role in translating sustainability strategies for employees. Effective communication about sustainability requires digestible and engaging storytelling. There is a need for consistency in language and alignment across leadership regarding sustainability. Organisations must integrate sustainability into their overall communication strategy. Data should be used to tell compelling stories about sustainability efforts. Internal communicators should connect sustainability initiatives with organisational goals. Leaders need tools and resources to effectively communicate sustainability strategies. The return to growth narrative may conflict with sustainability goals. The reappointment of Trump may galvanise grassroots activism. Younger generations feel they have little to lose, prompting activism. Internal stakeholders must be included in sustainability discussions. Sustainability should be integrated into business strategies, not treated separately. The circular economy is essential for sustainable growth. Internal communication must adapt to blurred organisational boundaries. Communicators need to balance storytelling with data in sustainability efforts. Sustainability communication requires cross-departmental collaboration. Internal communicators should engage with sustainability teams proactively. The future of internal communication hinges on sustainability integration.   About Debra Sobel – Strategic Communications Consultant Debra is an experienced strategic communications strategist, with specialist knowledge in all things sustainability and purpose. Over 18 years in business she has partnered and consulted with national and multinational brands helping them navigate the purpose landscape, shape strategy and deliver clarity when it comes to stakeholder communications and embedding responsible business into culture. Debra is an ex-BBC prime TV producer / director who worked on programmes including Crimewatch, Watchdog and political and environmental documentaries. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-sobel-verity-london/

The volume of digital tools and platforms available to improve how we work expands by the day. But how effectively are we, as users of those products, integrating them into our daily work habits? What provision is made by organisations to make sure their internal stakeholders are skilled to optimally use these tools? And what is the long-term impact on the users trying to keep up with increasingly digital workplaces? In this episode, Jen, Dom and Cat chat with Elizabeth Marsh who researches the effect of all-digital on organisational health. A keynote speaker at the IoIC's 2021 festival, Elizabeth specialises in digital upskilling and digital health. This conversation explores the intersection between new workplace technology and the future-readiness of internal stakeholders to embrace increasingly AI-fuelled operating environments. Takeaways Techno stress is a psychological and physiological strain from technology use. Organisations have a responsibility to provide effective digital tools. The rapid pace of technology changes can lead to feelings of disempowerment. Availability expectations contribute to increased techno stress. Different age groups experience techno stress differently. Good communication practices are essential for managing digital overload. Internal communicators play a crucial role in fostering conversations about technology use. Digital mindfulness can help individuals manage their technology interactions. Organisations should prioritise employee wellbeing in digital transformations. Asking questions about technology use is vital for understanding and improvement. About Elizabeth Marsh Elizabeth Marsh is an expert on workforce skills and wellbeing in digital contexts. She has over 20 years of experience in the digital workplace industry, working in range of organisations and roles - as a practitioner, consultant and researcher. Her consulting and research span topics such as digital dexterity including AI readiness, protecting wellbeing in context of issues such as technostress and overload, and the role of digital workplace and communications professionals in mitigating them. She supports organisations with digital skills audits and recommendations for raising digital dexterity and protecting wellbeing. In 2014 she co-authored 'The Digital Renaissance of Work' book and in 2018 released 'The Digital Workplace Skills Framework' report. Now in the latter stages of an ESRC 'Digital Society' PhD at the University of Nottingham, she has recently published to peer reviewed journals on the 'dark side' of technology and optimising digital worker well-being.   Find Elizabeth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmarsh/ Elizabeth's website: https://digitalworkresearch.com/

Tracey Camilleri is the co-founder of the leadership and organisational development consultancy Thompson Harrison. In 2023, her book The Social Brain, co-authored with Samantha Rockey and Robin Dunbar was published to widespread acclaim. In this episode we hear from Tracey as she shares what she's learned about team dynamics and communicating within groups. As organisations across the board become ever more digitally enabled, location-agnostic and asynchronous, Cat learns about how to embrace human connection and build community for enhanced organisational outcomes Takeaways The leader's role is to create a thriving environment. Social interactions are essential for workplace efficiency. Small groups foster better relationships and performance. Communication is key to team coherence and success. Organisations need to prioritise social strategies. The health of small groups is crucial for innovation. Internal communicators are vital to organisational success. People's sense of belonging impacts their performance. Leadership should focus on relational aspects of work. Understanding team dynamics can enhance workplace culture.   Tracey Camilleri Tracey Camilleri is the co-founder of Thompson Harrison, along with Sam Rockey and is an Associate Fellow at Oxford University's Saïd Business School (OSBS). At OSBS, she has designed and directed the flagship Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme (2012-2022) as well as bespoke senior development programmes. She is known for her innovative design approach, her focus on the dynamics and practice of successful groups and what it means to lead healthy, thriving organisations in a world increasingly dominated by process and machines. Earlier in her career she variously ran her own consulting company, WMC Communications, worked as an associate for the private investment bank, Allen and Company, as new business director for the publishing company, Marshall Cavendish, a teacher of English literature at St Paul's Girls' School, and as a research associate at Bain and Company. Her book, 'The Social Brain: The Psychology of Successful Groups', written in partnership with Sam Rockey and evolutionary psychologist, Professor Robin Dunbar, was published by Penguin Random House in Spring 2023. Tracey has an MA from Oxford University.   Find Tracey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracey-camilleri/ Tracey's website: https://www.thompsonharrison.com/

In a commercial world that is increasingly data-driven and preoccupied by measurement, how do we create emotional connection that sustains colleague engagement, builds trust and improves communication at work? Beatrice Ngalula Kabutakapua is a business storytelling coach who uses the power of story to help organisations and their leaders improve their communication styles. A two-time speaker at the IoIC festival, Beatrice chats with Jen, Dom and Cat and shares why storytelling is such a compelling communication technique, particularly in times of ongoing and profound change.   Takeaways Storytelling is a powerful method of communication that engages and connects with employees. Stories create an emotional connection and make messages more memorable and impactful. Creating a storytelling culture in the workplace allows employees to feel safe to share their stories. Storytelling is crucial in change and transformation communication, helping employees understand and care about the change. Internal communicators should work on their own storytelling skills and use storytelling as a coaching tool to help leaders share their stories effectively. About Beatrice Ngalula Kabutakapua Beatrice Ngalula Kabutakapua is a professional storyteller, having worked as a journalist and documentary maker for a decade, she now supports international organisations as a business storytelling coach. Beatrice applies storytelling to engage, retain and develop internal audiences so that employees advance in their careers, are more productive, and lead with clarity of communication.   LinkedIn |  https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrice-ngalula-kabutakapua/    

Ellen Van Oosten is Professor of Organization Behavior at Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio. She's also the co-author of one of the best books we've read about human behaviour. Helping People Change, written by Richard Boyatzis, Melvin Smith and Ellen Van Oosten was Henley Business School's coaching book of the year in 2020. And we are unsurprised, because by taking a human-first approach to change, it turns most conventional thinking about organisational change management on its head. In this episode, Jen, Dom and Cat chat with Ellen to hear what she's learned about human behaviour over the course of her career. They discuss how organisations can better help their internal stakeholders not only shift behaviour for the long-term but also navigate the continuous change that marks the 2020s. Takeaways Continuous change is a prevalent and ongoing experience in the workplace, with many organisations undergoing restructuring and leadership changes. Successful change requires individuals to have a sense of agency and to feel a personal connection to the desired future state. Communication plays a crucial role in change management, particularly in articulating goals and objectives and fostering a shared understanding of how individuals can contribute to the organization's strategy. The failure rate of change programmes remains high, indicating a need for a more empathetic and human-centered approach to change management. Empathy and emotional intelligence are essential skills for leaders and communicators to cultivate in order to create supportive and engaging environments for change. Positive emotion is needed to thrive and flourish. It's about dreams, not just goals. Build resonant relationships through clarity, connection, and compassion. About Ellen Van Oosten Ellen B. Van Oosten, Ph.D. is Professor in the Department of Organizational Behavior and Faculty Director of Executive Education at the Case Weatherhead School of Management. She is also Director of the Coaching Research Lab, a scholar-practitioner collaboration to advance coaching research founded in 2014. Her research interests include coaching, leadership development, emotional intelligence and women's leadership in STEM fields.  She teaches in the MBA, Executive MBA and directs the Weatherhead Coach Certificate Program, the Leadership Institute for Women in STEM and Manufacturing Program and several company specific programs.  She is also the author of numerous academic and practitioner articles and co-author of the award-winning book - Helping People Change: Coaching with Compassion for Lifelong Learning and Growth – with colleagues Richard Boyatzis, PhD and Melvin Smith, PhD.  She has a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Dayton and a MBA and PhD from Case Western Reserve University.   Find Ellen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenbrooksvanoosten/ Ellen's website: https://case.edu/weatherhead/about/faculty-and-staff-directory/ellen-van-oosten HBR article: https://hbr.org/2019/09/coaching-for-change 5 Training Mistakes that Inhibit Lasting Change:  http://tinyurl.com/y6qeh8uw . How the best managers balance analytical and emotional intelligence - - https://hbr.org/2020/06/the-best-managers-balance-analytical-and-emotional-intelligence.   How to support the people you lead in times of uncertainty -https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_support_the_people_you_lead_in_times_of_uncertainty

Peter Mandeno is an expert in the science of human connection. His work goes beyond simply explaining why connections matter to show organisations how to improve connectivity outcomes by design – for employee engagement, wellbeing, creativity and performance. As many countries in the Global North grapple with societal loneliness epidemics, in tandem organisations are encountering rising social friction at work. Yet strong bonds with work colleagues underpin successful collaboration, innovation and long-term business sustainability. In this episode, Jen, Cat and Dom discuss what Peter discovered during his PhD research and why human connection is so invaluable. They also explore what organisations can do to improve engagement and wellbeing at work.     Takeaways Organisations need to create the conditions for authentic and meaningful connections to happen naturally in the workplace. Emotional, transactional, and intellectual connections are all valuable and contribute to engagement, well-being, and innovation. Internal communicators can promote better connectivity by focusing on content, channel, and context. Human connection should be seen as a strategic objective and given the necessary time, resources, and attention. About Peter Mandeno Peter Mandeno is an expert in the science of human connection. His work goes beyond simply explaining why connections matter to show organisations how to improve connectivity outcomes by design – for employee engagement, wellbeing, creativity and performance. A native of New Zealand, Peter earned his PhD in Design Engineering from Imperial College London. His research built on two decades of global industry experience in communication, strategy and design. Peter has worked with organisations ranging from ABN AMRO and GSK to KPMG and Vodafone, helping them communicate more effectively and designing experiences that get diverse and distributed teams connecting more authentically. Peter's approach is practical, applicable and accessible. In addition to delivering inspirational keynotes and teaching masterclasses to teams of all sizes, Peter advises and consults globally on a range of human connectivity challenges from employee engagement and hybrid work strategies to talent retention and client relationships. Peter's book – ‘Better Connected' – is due to launch in 2025.   Find Peter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermandeno Peter's website: https://betterconnected.world HBR article: https://hbr.org/2013/01/facilitating-serendipity-with-peel-and-eat-shrimp

James Ball is an award-winning journalist, broadcaster and author. He is a fellow of the think-tank Demos and the political editor of The New European. He is also the current chair of the UK committee of the Ethical Journalism Network. Having been part of the Pulitzer prize-winning journalism team at the Guardian who covered the NSA leaks by Edward Snowden, it's little surprise he's developed more than a passing interest in the topics of trust and truth. Amongst other titles, in 2017 James published ‘Post-Truth: How Bullshit Conquered the World'. The 2024 IC Index highlighted the crucial role of trust at work. With trust on a knife-edge in so many organisations now, we wanted to chat with someone who had researched into this vital issue. Our conversation with James explores the critical role of trust and truth in healthy, well-functioning societies, and what happens when the people we ought to be able to trust don't tell the truth. Takeaways Trust is a pressing issue in the workplace, especially as new ways of working continue to evolve. The definition of trust is nebulous and difficult to quantify, but it generally refers to the belief in what someone says. Facts and figures alone are not enough to change beliefs; trust is built through starting where people are and addressing their concerns. Transparency and open communication are key in building trust and authenticity in journalism and internal communication. Regular and transparent communication is essential for building trust in organizations. Balancing 'I don't know' with providing information is crucial for maintaining credibility. AI can assist in communication but should not replace human interaction. Effective communication involves building rapport, finding common ground, and challenging constructively. Communication should be inclusive, honest, and open to empower individuals and foster trust. About James Ball James Ball James Ball is an award winning journalist, broadcaster and author, fellow of the think-tank Demos, and the political editor of The New European. He has worked as the global editor of TBIJ, a special correspondent at BuzzFeed UK and special projects editor at The Guardian, where he played a key role in the Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of the NSA leaks by Edward Snowden, as well as the offshore leaks, HSBC Files, Reading the Riots and Keep it in the Ground projects.  At WikiLeaks he was closely involved in Cablegate – the publication of 250,000 classified US embassy cables in 2010 – as well as working on two documentaries based on the Iraq War Logs. James is a longstanding trustee for, and chair of the UK committee of, the Ethical Journalism Network. James is the author of multiple books, including "Post-Truth and "The Tangled Web We Weave: Inside The Shadow System That Shapes the Internet”. His most recent book, “The Other Pandemic: How Qanon Contaminated The World” was published by Bloomsbury in July 2023.  

Strategy consultant Jennifer Sertl is an internationally recognized influencer in social media and the president and founder of Agility3R, a leadership development company. In 2010, she co-wrote a book: Strategy, Leadership, and the Soul: Resilience, responsiveness and reflection for a global economy. Ahead of its time, the book set out the new era of digitized, hyperconnected globalisation and explored what this meant for leaders, business strategy and communication.       In this illuminating conversation, Cat, Jen and Dom discuss the importance of authenticity in internal communication, not least in the age of generative AI. As we navigate continuous change and market ambiguity, Jennifer's insights have lots to offer progressively-minded internal communicators. Takeaways Authentic leadership involves understanding one's essence and values. Soulful communication is essential in the workplace. AI cannot replace the need for trust and human connection. Language and conversation have the power to shift perspectives and shape leadership. Creating a safe space for leaders to practice and learn is crucial. Authentic leadership requires curiosity, vulnerability, and the ability to listen and learn. Leaders need to trust themselves and create environments where others can trust themselves as well. The traditional MBA model and hierarchical structures may not be sustainable in the changing landscape of work. Internal communicators play a crucial role in understanding the business model, using language effectively, and humanising the audience. Effective leadership communication is about building community, asking great questions, and being true to oneself. About Jennifer Sertl Strategy consultant Jennifer Sertl is an internationally recognized influencer in social media and the president and founder of Agility3R, a leadership development company. She is dedicated to strengthening strategic skills and helping leaders become more resilient, responsive, and reflective. Jennifer co-authored Strategy, Leadership, and the Soul and the Upstate Founders Playbook. Named one of the top 100 innovative thinkers by Hatch A Better World in 2013, she is also an alumni of Innotribe, SWIFT's innovation think tank. Currently, Jennifer serves as Director of Marketing for Circle Optics, Inc., creators of the only seamless 360 imaging system camera. She is also Chief Marketing Officer for Say Hii, an AI tool that increases productivity and wellbeing for market-leading organizations. Additionally, Jennifer is an Adjunct Professor at Rochester Institute of Technology, where she teaches Innovation.    

In 2022, Preeti Macwan embarked on a Master's degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communication with Kingston University. We are, of course, huge fans of anyone willing to invest in professional qualifications and so were keen to learn more about what Preeti studied and what her most compelling takeaways from the course were. In this episode, Dom, Jen and Cat chat with Preeti to uncover what she learned about storytelling as a strategic communication tool and how her studies have shaped her thinking about the future of internal communication. Takeaways Training line managers is crucial for effective storytelling in organisations. Honesty, authenticity, and vulnerability are key values in storytelling. Recognising and celebrating successful storytellers within the organisation is important. The desire for employees to return to the office challenges the narrative of remote work. Transparency and authenticity are essential in organisational communication. Leaders need to be aware of their own style and adapt their communication to be authentic and relatable. Education plays a crucial role in preparing professionals for the corporate world and internal communication. Cultural differences can significantly impact leadership styles and the overall employee experience. The future of internal communication involves finding a balance between technology and human storytelling. Hybrid working offers a safety net and should be embraced to accommodate individual temperament and preferences. About Preeti Macwan Preeti Macwan has always been fascinated by human interaction, so studying communications felt like a natural course of action. She recently completed a master's degree in PR and Corporate Communications at Kingston University with a specific interest in internal and cross-cultural communications.   LinkedIn profile:

Adam Bastock was enjoying a successful career in digital marketing when he realised the planet was in crisis and decided to do something about it. In 2020 he set up Small99 with a mission to help the UK's small businesses become more sustainable and reduce their carbon footprint. He's gone from strength to strength since then. Adam is the brain behind People, Planet, Pint – a social meetup for anyone concerned about climate change and sustainability. Originally devised as a meetup after COP22 in Adam's hometown of Glasgow, PPP has gone on to operate in 75 cities across 10 countries. Community, it's clear, is a great catalyst and enabler of change. In this episode Jen, Cat and Dom chat with Adam to hear how SME's are responding to the climate crisis and what role he thinks communication plays in successful community building and behaviour change. About Adam Adam is the founder of Small99. Small99™ is helping small businesses to take positive action to reduce their carbon footprint to become more sustainable and profitable. Vision - Our Ambition To create the Small99™ Carbon Reduction Community – a positive and energetic force that supports small businesses to make their vital contribution to the UK's carbon reduction targets. Mission At Small99™ we provide practical support, tools and local meetups to start 1 million small businesses on their path to net zero by 2025. We're doing this because existing guidance often overlooks small businesses, yet 99% of businesses in the UK employ fewer than 49 employees - together they can make a huge contribution to reducing the UK's carbon output. Our Story Small99™ is helping small businesses to take positive action to reduce their carbon footprint to become more sustainable and profitable. The UK's small business community has the power to make a vital contribution to our carbon reduction targets. Small99™ is creating a movement for change – a movement that is empowering small businesses by creating a portfolio of practical tools, support and networking opportunities. The Small99™ process is practical, approachable and, importantly, it aligns with the targets of companies like Microsoft. It enables small businesses to evaluate their footprint, set targets for reducing it and measure their progress. The Small99™ team is ambitious for change and aims to connect with one million businesses by 2025 – businesses that can, with our help, improve their sustainability and profitability and help the UK meet its carbon reduction targets. How we do it You can join us at our People, Planet, Pint™ events held across the UK and internationally. They're a great way to meet other small businesses, to share your challenges, ideas and experiences so that you can learn from others. You can attend one of our CRAB (Carbon Reduction Action Box) workshops where, in a couple of hours, you can create a baseline for your carbon reduction plan, scope your next steps and make some good connections along the way. You can access our online Carbon Reduction Measurement tool to help you take action and monitor your progress. It's a simple, effective and accessible and provides the information you need to plan for and reduce your carbon Footprint. You can get expert support from our team when you need help to stay on track. You can estimate your digital carbon footprint quickly in detail too. Already, we've engaged with more than 9,000 businesses in the past 2 years through our workshops, tools and events. We organise around 60 events a month across the world to bring small businesses together - including Chicago, Singapore and Australia. Join the Small99™ Carbon Reduction Movement – it's simple, accessible anddesigned to help you and your business to become more sustainable and Profitable.   Our Work Small99 has directly trained over 6,000 businesses in the past 2 years on the topic of Net Zero, focusing on small businesses that were feeling overwhelmed and confused by the existing guidance available. Adam Bastock, Small99 Founder, studied at the Cambridge Institute for Sustainable Leaders (CISL), and has since worked with multiple organisations throughout the UK under the Small99™ brand. Some of Small99's partnerships include: “Net Zero 360”, with Clean Growth UK, to guide hundreds of businesses to measure and reduce their footprint. The development and delivery of lightweight, first step, sustainability workshops with Small Business Britain. “Step up to Net Zero” with Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, a fully funded placement program for 60 businesses. Scottish Council of Voluntary Organizations, to develop tools for “Growing Climate Confidence”, a ‘where to start' resource for the third sector.   For full details, see “Our Work”.

The IC Index is a first-of-its-kind research project commissioned by the IoIC that explores the impact of internal communication on internal stakeholders. To mark the launch of the 2024 IC Index, Jen, Dom and Cat welcome Susanna Holten from project partner Ipsos Karian & Box. As research project lead, Susanna has expert insights as to what the data means for the internal communication profession. As this year's report focusses on trust, this podcast conversation explores the criticality of trust for employee advocacy, collaboration, and leadership. Much like the report itself, this episode covers a vast amount of ground. The need for clear and inclusive internal communication has never been more urgent. Not least as organisations must – in so many cases – pivot their business strategies to maintain market relevance, adapt to AI-enabled workplaces and strive to find hybrid work equilibrium.    Takeaways Trust is a key driver of employee advocacy, collaboration, and engagement. Empathy from leaders and effective communication from direct managers are crucial for building trust. External events and the employer's stance on socio-cultural and economic issues impact employee trust and engagement. Internal communication plays a vital role in creating a hyper-connected organisation. Communication training for managers and leaders is essential for effective internal communication. Good relationships at work are crucial for employee engagement and customer relationships. Values alignment is important for creating a cohesive and supportive organisational culture. Transparency and radical honesty are key in building trust and improving communication. Internal communicators have the opportunity to drive change and take a stance on important issues. The IC Index provides valuable insights and data for internal communicators to inform their strategies and actions.   About Susanna Holten Susanna is a Principal Consultant at Ipsos Karian and Box. Alongside leading a team of internal communication and behaviour change consultants, she's been driving the IK&B internal communication audit offering over the past few years. She supports a broad range of clients in the IC research and strategic advisory space. She leads the work on the annual IC Index report, in close collaboration with the IoIC.   

David Wales' interest in human behaviour stems from his career in the UK Fire Service. While there he held roles as investigation and research lead, emergency incident command and he helped develop national policy. In that time, he became fascinated by the reality that despite best advice, humans often risk their lives when confronted with emergency situations. In this episode, Cat, Dom and Jen hear what David has learned about crisis communication. By focusing on human behaviour rather than cost, efficiency and standardisation, organisations can create shared language and communication that aids understanding for an optimal number of stakeholders.   Takeaways Effective crisis communication requires understanding human behavior and the lived experience of individuals in crisis situations. There is often a communication breakdown between public service providers and recipients, leading to a lack of understanding and satisfaction with the services provided. Empathy, humility, and relatedness are essential in crisis communication to connect with individuals on a human level. Emotions play a significant role in crisis situations, and communication needs to consider the emotional mindset and psychology of individuals. Building relationships and trust with the community is crucial for effective crisis communication. Understand and respect the perspectives of others in communication Build trust and involve employees in decision-making processes Prioritize community preparedness and responsiveness in crisis situations Shift from top-down approaches to bottom-up approaches in organizations Build relationships, be curious, and work with people to create effective communication strategies   About David Wales  David advocates for rethinking the relationship between organisations and people to improve the wellbeing and performance of both. He is the Founder of the SharedAim Ltd consultancy which has a unique approach to helping organisations deal with the cost and disruption of unexpected behaviours (for example by employees, customers, partners or any other groups it interacts with). He is also the Founder and host of the Purposefully Human Community which provides a space for anyone interested in the benefits of creating organisations that work with, and celebrate, what it means to be human. A multi-award winning professional, established presenter, facilitator and author, he is currently writing a book outlining how organisations can authentically work with human behaviour, rather than against it. Prior to this David was an operational fire and rescue (FRS) officer with responsibilities for community safety and fire investigation. It was here that he first developed an understanding and interest in all aspects of communication. He also led a pioneering research programme into human behaviour (when encountering a fire in the home) which remains influential on international thinking and practice. And this subsequently led to David being appointed as the first Customer Experience Manager in the FRS.

Dr. Naeema Pasha is a leading expert in AI, diversity and skilling. She set up and led the World of Work (WOW) Institute at Henley Business School, examining the future of work, and more specifically the ethical impact of AI on work, workers and workplaces. A keynote speaker at our 2024 IoIC festival, we wanted to chat with Naeema in front of a broader audience. Of most interest, we wanted to explore ethical considerations for the healthy, fair and inclusive adoption of AI at work. In this episode, Naeema shares her ideas for how to implement AI at work in a way that avoids unforeseen consequences and that's optimally equitable for as many internal stakeholders as possible. Takeaways Ethics in the context of AI involves making fair, reasonable, and good decisions that align with an organisation's purpose and values. Generative AI adoption raises ethical concerns related to bias, job displacement, depersonalisation of human interactions, and the impact on teaching, learning, and employee engagement. The Luddite movement and historical perspectives on technological change provide insights into the concerns and challenges associated with the adoption of new technologies, including generative AI. The impact of AI on human roles goes beyond the transfer of information and involves emotional labor, trust, and relationship-building. Internal communicators play a crucial role in addressing the ethical issues of AI adoption at work, including critical analysis, awareness-raising, and the development of ethical guidelines. The conversation emphasises the need for open discussions about AI ethics, the importance of human-AI collaboration, and the consideration of unintended consequences and ethical guidelines. The ethical implications of AI adoption at work require a new language of questions and a focus on humanised workplaces and human-AI symbiosis.   About Dr Naeema Pasha Dr. Pasha set up and led the World of Work (WOW) Institute at Henley Business School, which examines the future of work, including the ethical impact of AI on work, workers and workplaces. At WOW, her film, Privacy Ltd, explored the ethics of the use and effect of facial recognition technology in UK society. At Henley, she also carried out a groundbreaking research on race equity in UK businesses, The Equity Effect. Now an independent consultant, she works with various organisations and institutions on AI, diversity and skills projects, as well as policy such as working on a UN Paper on the dangers of Generative AI. Naeema is recognised by Ifpc-online as one of the Top 50 Worldwide Influencers on AI Ethics LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-naeema-pasha-9b23b66/  

While historically an industrial powerhouse, Manchester has, like most cities across the UK since the 2008 financial crash, struggled with increasingly precarious, low-paid and inaccessible work. The Good Employment Charter was developed to counter this. By raising standards of employment across all sectors, regardless of organisation size, the Charter has kickstarted a rising trend where people at work in the Greater Manchester region are paid fairly for their work, treated appropriately and where inclusion at work is so much more than a nice-to-have buzzword. In this episode, Jen, Dom and Cat chat with Ian MacArthur, Director of the Charter's Implementation Unit. He shares the origins of the Charter and dives into the role of access to good work in a healthy, well-functioning society.   Takeaways The Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter addresses the challenges of the current labour market, focusing on health, wellbeing, and inequality. Effective communication and time management are crucial for creating a healthy and productive work environment. Employee activism and the role of middle management play a significant part in shaping the future of work in the digital age. About Ian MacArthur An exiled Scotsman, Ian has spent his career working on environmental and public health issues - and the socioeconomic policies that underpin them - from community to international levels. Starting his career as an environmental health officer with Carlisle City Council, he has worked for Edinburgh City Council, the Health and Safety Executive, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, The World Health Organisation, the UK Public Health Association, Groundwork UK and STaR Procurement. More recently he led the GC Business Growth Hub's priority sector development and relationship management activities, before becoming the Director of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter -a key Mayoral priority initiative established in 2019.

How comfortable would you feel if we asked you to walk into a crowded room and find someone to strike up conversation with? Most of us can relate to feeling stressed by networking events where the focus is on meeting new people. A media that thrives on headlines that accentuate difference and division doesn't help. Which is perhaps why we were so captivated by the themes discussed by Joe Keohane in his book, The Power of Strangers. As more and more organisations concede hybrid working is an inevitable part of 2020s work life, how we spend our time when we are together becomes ever more crucial. We need gatherings that build connection, trust, goodwill and community. In this podcast conversation, Dom and Cat chat with Joe to find out what he learned as he researched his book and what we, as internal communicators, can learn about the benefits of creating connection with strangers.   Joe Keohane mini-biography I'm a veteran journalist who has worked as an editor at Medium, Esquire, Entrepreneur, and Hemispheres, and the author of The Power f Strangers, and co-author of The Lemon, which we're currently developing for television. My writing—on everything from politics, to travel, to social science, business, and technology—has appeared in New York magazine, The Boston Globe, GQ, The New Yorker, Wired, Boston magazine, and The New Republic. Born in the Boston area, I currently reside in New York City with my wife and daughter.

Hardly a day goes by now without a news article circulating telling us of the boundless benefits of the next phase of AI and how we must all hurry to adapt. There's little time to think about the pros and cons – the mainstream narrative is get on board or get left behind. But what's at stake? What are the downsides? Activist Gerry McGovern is hugely concerned. And rightly so. The environmental footprint of next generation technology is barely mentioned. Author of World Wide Waste, Gerry has committed to sharing the true cost of AI as far and wide as he can. In this episode, Cat, Jen and Dom chat with Gerry to learn about the carbon impact of all-digital and uncover what internal communicators can do to educate, inform and help their organisations reduce their carbon emissions.   Takeaways Recognize the absence of bicycles in advertising and the prevalence of artificial bicycles for indoor use. Shift from propaganda to realism in order to make meaningful changes. Ask harder questions and work towards changing behaviors and mindsets. Slow down and recognize that humans were not designed for the fast-paced lifestyle we currently lead.   About Gerry McGovern Gerry has published eight books on digital content and data. In 1996, the Irish government published his report, ‘Ireland, The Digital Age, The Internet.' That same year, The European Union awarded Nua, a company he co-founded, its Best Overall WWW Business Achievement Award. Gerry's latest book, World Wide Waste, examines the impact data waste and e-waste are having on the environment and what to do about it. Gerry also developed Top Tasks, a research method used by hundreds of organizations to help identify what truly matters. The Irish Times has described Gerry as one of five visionaries who have had a major impact on the development of the Web.  www.gerrymcgovern.com gerry@gerrymcgovern.com @gerrymcgovern@mastodon.green    

As economic conditions continue to create complexity, it's easy to look for quick fixes and short-cuts that ringfence and protect margin and profit. But at what cost? Almost every week a new scandal breaks of an organisation breaching standards and causing harm either to humans or the environment. Ethics, it seems, are on the wane. But what are they and why do they matter? In this episode, Jen, Dom and Cat ask Roger Steare – the corporate philosopher – to explain the cruciality of ethics in business, not least in the age of AI. More importantly, we discuss the role internal communication can play in upholding ethics in the workplace, in a way that serves both people and planet.   Takeaways Ethics is the way we think about and debate how to lead a good life in every aspect of our lives. Ethics in business is a force for good, but it requires leaders of good character and a shift in mindset towards a healthier society. Effective dialogue and communication are essential for ethical decision-making and creating a well-functioning organisation. There is a growing pressure and expectation for organisations to do good for society, but there is a gap between business and societal values that needs to be bridged. The addiction to consumer capitalism and the focus on profit and growth hinder the pursuit of a good life and a sustainable civilisation. Cultural transformation in organisations can happen rapidly when leaders prioritise ethical decision-making and create a culture of trust and dialogue. organisations should align their values with universal moral values and apply the 'gulag test' to ensure their values are morally sound. Generative AI poses risks such as bias, misinformation, security breaches, and lack of accountability. Internal communicators should engage in moral education and facilitate discussions at all levels of their profession. Courage is required to take a stance and do the right thing in shaping the future of organisations and society. It is important to focus on the good work and responsible leadership as an antidote to the pervasive disaster narratives in mainstream media.   About Roger Steare Roger Steare is The Corporate Philosopher recognised worldwide as a leading expert on moral reasoning, values-based leadership and culture, and the responsible use of AI. He has collaborated with CEOs and their teams across multiple industries to address billion-dollar ethical challenges and opportunities, focusing on reflection, learning, and a commitment to positive change. Notable partnerships include working with Joe Garner at HSBC in 2007, Openreach in 2012, and Nationwide Building Society in 2016, aiming to foster a culture of social purpose and ethics. In 2023, Joe wrote this testimonial of their work together. “Roger is brilliant in his field and thinks very differently from most.” Following the 2010 Gulf of Mexico disaster, BP asked Roger to develop a global Ethical Leadership program for 4,000 leaders. The program was so impactful that it earned recognition from the US Department of Justice in 2016 as part of the US$20.8 billion Consent Agreement with BP. In 2012, after RBS's massive restructuring, he was sought for a leadership and culture transformation program in collaboration with PwC, earning high praise from CEO Stephen Hester for the shared learning and growth experience. In 2021, he was invited to help a national government to define those moral values that are essential for a fairer society. Drawing on insights from anthropology, psychology, and moral philosophy, he recommended Humanity, Justice, Wisdom, Courage, Temperance, and Resilience as the values that define a fair and prosperous society.   Find out more about Roger Website:            https://thecorporatephilosopher.org/ LinkedIn:           https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogersteare/ Books:                https://thecorporatephilosopher.org/book/  

In this episode, the hosts are joined by guest Alex Fahie to discuss the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI in internal communication. They explore the potential of generative AI to automate content creation and the impact it may have on the role of internal communicators. They also discuss the importance of upskilling for internal communicators to effectively leverage AI tools. The conversation then shifts to the practical application of generative AI in the education sector, specifically in tasks such as lesson planning and finding cover for absent teachers. They discuss the application of AI in internal communication and the importance of humanising technology. They explore topics such as automating touch points and employee experience, moving from a task-based approach to systems thinking, the role of internal communicators in humanising technology, the challenges of labels and identity, and the risks of data and labels. They emphasise the need for internal communicators to ensure the healthy use of AI in organisations and focus on outcomes rather than tools and tactics. The main takeaway is the importance of play and experimentation in understanding and utilising AI effectively. Takeaways Generative AI uses artificial intelligence to generate new content, such as text, images, videos, and songs. While generative AI has the potential to automate content creation, it is important for internal communicators to be educated and skilled in using these tools effectively. Generative AI can be applied in various tasks in the education sector, such as lesson planning, essay marking, and finding cover for absent teachers. Teachers' reactions to generative AI in education vary, with some expressing apathy due to the influx of educational technology, while others see it as a way to alleviate administrative burdens and fall back in love with teaching. Internal communicators can be empowered by AI tools to have a seat at the table and effectively fulfill their role in organisations. About Alex Fahie Alexander Fahie is a semi-good entrepreneur, AI consultant and a very-average author, on a mission to make a difference. After studying Politics with Economics at Newcastle University, Fahie entered investment management in 2011. He was recognised as a 'top 30 under 30' in 2016. In 2018, he founded Ethical Angel, a company tasked with turning the needs of charities into learning experiences to ensure good causes had more sustainable support. The firm has garnered VC investment from around the world, numerous awards, and full B-Corp certification, collaborating with major businesses. In 2020, Fahie was part of the UK delegation for the UK Government Tech4Good trade mission to India. In 2023, the same year that his book, “Workplace Learning: Have we got it all wrong?” was published, Fahie founded TAISK, using AI to complete tasks. Whether helping a small business owner drive sales, giving teachers precious hours back for student interaction, enabling CEOs to improve efficiency and culture, or helping students fast-track their learning and earning potential, TAISK is the game-changer and one of Europe's fastest growing AI workshops. Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-fahie/  

In this episode, the team is joined by guest Howard Krais to discuss the importance of listening in organisations and the role of leadership in fostering a listening culture. He highlights the lack of emphasis on listening in business education and the challenges organisations face in prioritising and acting on feedback from internal stakeholders. He emphasises the need for leaders and internal communicators to develop interpersonal listening skills and become the voice of employees. He encourages internal communicators to take action by leveraging their influence to drive change and improve organizational outcomes through effective listening.   Takeaways Listening is a crucial skill for leaders and organisations to foster trust, engagement, and innovation. The lack of emphasis on listening in business education hinders leaders' ability to effectively listen and engage with employees. Organisations should prioritise and act on feedback from internal stakeholders to drive change and improve outcomes. Internal communicators can play a vital role in creating a listening culture by becoming the voice of employees and influencing decision-making.   About Howard Krais Howard co-founded True, a business set up to help organisations build winning cultures through maximising the potential of their people in early 2023. Before True, Howard spent much of his career in senior in house communications and engagement roles at businesses such as Ernst & Young, GSK and latterly Johnson Matthey.  Over the last six years, together with colleague Mike Pounsford and Kevin Ruck, Howard has led work focused on how organisations listen. Following four ground-breaking reports, a book, entitled “Leading the Listening Organisation” was published by Routledge in December 2023.  Howard was President of the UK chapter of International Association of Business Communicators for two years (2019-21), and Chairman of Wealdstone Football Club (2007-16).    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-krais-4094a02/    

In this episode, Janet Hitchen discusses the importance of understanding organisational priorities and aligning internal communication efforts with those objectives. She emphasises the need to ask the right questions and challenge assumptions to ensure that the work being done is truly impactful. Janet also highlights the educational aspect of internal communication, both within organisations and in educational institutions. She stresses the importance of business acumen and the confidence to ask questions and seek understanding. Ultimately, Janet encourages internal communicators to reflect on the work they are doing and strive to make a meaningful impact. Takeaways Understand the organisation's priorities and align internal communication efforts accordingly. Ask the right questions to ensure that the work being done is truly impactful. Educate others on the role of internal communication and its importance in achieving organisational goals. Develop business acumen and the confidence to ask questions and seek understanding.   About Janet Hitchen Janet Hitchen is a Internal Communication Leader with 20 years experience working globally in Finance, Tech, FMCG and Retail. She has worked in complex international organisations, start ups and scale ups and, for the world's most admired brand. In January 2020, she started her Internal Communication consultancy Janco Ltd to help companies create and/or reimagine their internal communication function. She's a strong advocate of internal comms as a business driver as she has done it and seen it many times when she and her teams have been given the opportunity to not simply react but proactively develop and craft. She's cultivated a deep passion for sustainability over the last few years and how internal communication professionals can help businesses shift to being futureready, strengthened by her recent studies and relationship with Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership. Outside of work she's an avid theatre-goer with a review blog she has been writing for 10 years, a gentle runner, a very-amateur film photographer, a prolific bookworm and, she is accompanied pretty much everywhere by her Border Terrier, Mills. You can contact her on LinkedIn or janet@janco.uk (but she admits email is not her favourite thing) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janethitchen/

In this episode, Jen, Dominic, Cat are joined by Professor Michael Heller and Dr Joe Chick to discuss the institutional history of internal communication. They recap the progress of their research project and share their discoveries from archival research. They explore the concepts of diachronic and synchronic analysis and how the perspective on well-being has evolved over time. They also discuss the factors that have accelerated internal communication, including crises and the changing role of management. The conversation highlights the importance of continuity and change in internal communication and the strategic use of language, such as family metaphors. This conversation explores the history and future of internal communications (IC). The professionalisation of IC is an ongoing process, and the use of rhetorical history and organisational memory plays a significant role in shaping the field. The importance of heritage and history in IC is highlighted, with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) being one of the oldest IC organisations. The impact of new technologies, such as social media and AI, on IC is discussed, emphasising the shift from content creation to curation and co-creation. The conversation concludes with the importance of listening and learning from the past in order to reimagine the future of IC. Takeaways The institutional history of internal communication involves analysing the past and present to understand the evolution of the field. Diachronic analysis focuses on studying a specific point in the past, while synchronic analysis examines a point in time across different periods. The perspective on well-being has changed over time, with modern internal communication emphasizing employee well-being. Crisis has played a significant role in shaping internal communication, with organisations responding to crises by developing new communication strategies. Continuity and change are important in internal communication, with some aspects remaining constant while others evolve. The strategic use of language, such as family metaphors, can shape internal communication practices and organisational culture. The professionalisation of internal communications is an ongoing process. Rhetorical history and organizational memory play a significant role in shaping internal communications. Heritage and history are important in internal communications, providing a sense of pride and gravitas. New technologies, such as social media and AI, are changing the landscape of internal communications, shifting from content creation to curation and co-creation. Listening and learning from the past are crucial in order to reimagine the future of internal communications.   About Professor Michael Heller, Newcastle Business School at Northumbria University Michael Heller is a Professor of Business History at Newcastle Business School, Northumbria University. His research focuses on the history of large-scale organisations, work, corporate communication and society. He has published in a number of leading global academic journals such as Organisations Studies, British Journal of Management, European Journal of Marketing and Business History. He has been researching and publishing on internal communication for sixteen years. https://historyofinternalcomms.org/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/professor-michael-heller-b94819a5/   About Dr. Joe Chick Joe is a historian with an interest in long-term changes in social history from the medieval era to the present day. His research at Northumbria University is on the rise of large organisations since the late nineteenth century, focusing on the discourse and practice of employer communication with employees. The themes of power relations and institutional change also appeared in his previous research into the transition from the medieval to the early modern era. His work looked at the power of the monasteries through their lordship over English towns, looking at town–abbey relations and institutional change with the sudden removal of these exceptionally powerful lords with Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries. His first book Urban Society and Monastic Lordship in Reading, 1350-1600 was published with Boydell & Brewer in 2022. https://historyofinternalcomms.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-chick-36b6aa255/

In this episode, guest Diane Osgood, discusses the topic of business sustainability and its importance. She defines business sustainability as the impact a company has on the environment and society through its modes of production and the impact of the products it makes. She also highlights the importance of managing the risks of climate and environmental impact on the company, its employees, and its customers. Diane emphasises the role of internal communication in helping employees understand the company's sustainability goals and progress, facilitating dialogue and action, and bridging generational perspectives. She recommends that internal communicators focus on educating employees about the company's sustainability challenges and progress.   Takeaways Business sustainability encompasses the impact of a company's production processes and the nature of its products on the environment and society. Internal communication plays a crucial role in helping employees understand the company's sustainability goals, progress, and the broader context of sustainability. Effective internal communication can facilitate dialogue and action, bridge generational perspectives, and empower employees to contribute to sustainability efforts. Educating employees about sustainability challenges and progress is essential for creating a shared understanding and fostering a sense of purpose and responsibility.   About Diane Osgood  Diane Osgood, US/France, is a pioneer in corporate sustainability and human rights. She has over 30 years of helping companies innovate and grow with purpose.  She focuses on the power of consumers to influence brands and shape the economy. Diane served as a senior advisor to President Clinton for the Clinton Global Initiative and on the Vatican Arts and Technology Council.  Diane has run her boutique consulting business since 2019. Prior to that, she was a Director of Sustainability and Innovation for Richard Branson's Virgin Group and VP of Strategy at Business for Social Responsibility (BSR). Her consulting clients include Meta, Virgin Hotels, Addison/Sia-Partners, Avnet, Waters, Pega Systems, DuPont, Monsanto, P&G, Aventis Pharma, and social enterprises. She was a senior advisor to President Clinton for the Clinton Global Initiative and served on the Vatican Arts and Technology Council. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Economics and Development Studies at the London School of Economics. She's a co-author and co-editor of the award-winning The Carbon Almanac (Penguin, 2022) and of the forthcoming Your Shopping Superpower. She contributes to Fast Company and GreenBiz.

In this episode, Neil Carberry, Chief Executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, discusses the current state of the labour market and the challenges employers face in 2024. He emphasises the importance of effective internal communication in recruitment and retention, highlighting the need for human skills in the hiring process. Neil also discusses the impact of remote work and the importance of fair processes and negotiations in organisations. He emphasises the role of internal communicators in facilitating dialogue, establishing justice, and building a sense of belonging within the workforce. Overall, Neil emphasises the critical role of internal communication in navigating the complexities of the labour market and driving organisational success.   Takeaways Labour market trends in 2024 include a drop in permanent hiring and increased reliance on temporary hiring due to economic uncertainty. Improving hiring processes by working with specialist recruiters and focusing on quality applications can lead to better outcomes for employers and job seekers. The role of internal communication is crucial in recruitment and retention, with a focus on building relationships, facilitating dialogue, and establishing justice. Reskilling and upskilling are important in the current labour market, and organisations should provide clear pathways for career development and support employees in adapting to future changes. Internal communicators play a strategic role in organisations by helping leaders listen better, establish belonging, and communicate effectively with employees.   About Neil Carberry "Neil Carberry was appointed as Chief Executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation in June 2018 having been managing director at the Confederation of British Industry, leading the CBI's work on the labour market, skills, energy and infrastructure.  In 1999, Neil began his career in recruitment working for executive search firm Fraser Watson before doing a post-graduate degree in Human Resources at the London School of Economics and joining the CBI in 2004. He is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD and a Fellow of the RSA. He is a member of the council of the conciliation service ACAS and a former member of the Low Pay Commission, which recommends UK minimum wages. A three-time nominee to the SIA staffing100 in Europe, he is also on the board of the World Employment Confederation, Total People and a primary academy trust in Oxfordshire. Neil is an RFU qualified rugby coach and is one of the 8000 co-owners who made Heart of Midlothian the UK's biggest fan-owned football club.

In this episode, hosts Cat Barnard, Jen Sproul and Dom Walters are joined by Chris Carey and Christina Dolding from Axiom Communications.  The guests discuss the importance of colleague experience and its impact on attraction, retention, and business transformation. They emphasize the need for organisations to focus on the entire colleague journey, including pre-joining, onboarding, and post-honeymoon periods. The distinction between engagement and experience is highlighted, with experience being seen as more strategic and intentional. The role of internal communication in designing and improving colleague experience is emphasised, with a focus on listening, co-creation, and authenticity. The future of colleague experience is seen as more intentional and focused on managing life events. The conversation highlights the importance of listening and understanding in employee engagement. It emphasises the need for organisations to truly listen to their employees and take action based on their feedback. The discussion also explores the concept of designing the employee journey and the role of technology, HR processes, and leadership in shaping that journey. Training leaders and supporting line managers in communication are identified as crucial factors in delivering a positive employee experience. The conversation concludes with a focus on the potential benefits of investing time in employee engagement and the importance of considering the human journey in policy design. Takeaways Colleague experience is crucial for attraction, retention, and business transformation. Organisations should focus on the entire colleague journey, including pre-joining, onboarding, and post-honeymoon periods. Internal communication plays a vital role in designing and improving colleague experience. Listening, co-creation, and authenticity are key elements of successful colleague experience. The future of colleague experience will be more intentional and focused on managing life events. Truly listen to employees and take action based on their feedback. Design the employee journey by considering technology, HR processes, and leadership. Train leaders and support line managers in effective communication. Invest time in employee engagement to gain time back and improve overall performance. Consider the human journey when designing policies. About Chris Carey With more than 25 years in employee communication and engagement – the past 20 at the helm of Axiom after holding top corporate communication posts with several multinationals. As a consultant, I help organisations communicate with and engage their people, especially during times of change. I also devise and deliver communication skills training to help people become better communicators and am a seasoned facilitator of conferences and other live events. I've designed and delivered a wide range of employee engagement workshops for CEOs and frontline staff alike in organisations across sectors including pharmaceutical, manufacturing, retail, travel, banking and charities. When I'm on stage facilitating a big event, I like to use a high-energy, high-impact facilitation style to make the event live long in the memory. I'll engage your audience and hold their attention – and then get them to identify and commit to pragmatic actions they can take when they get back to the office or factory floor. https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscareyaxiom/ About Christina Dolding  I have enjoyed over 30 years partnering with people and teams in the corporate world, focusing on both customer and employee experience. I have led and delivered transformation programmes which created outstanding, award winning colleague and customer centric journeys. I strongly believe delivering great, consistent and intentional colleague experiences is, without doubt, the route to delivering the highest possible level of customer experience. Over the years, I have designed and implemented a wide variety of innovative and creative end-to-end solutions that deliver remarkable results, whilst also achieving substantial cost benefits. By translating the tools, techniques and training used extensively in the world of customer experience, I ensure the voices colleagues are heard and their diverse insights harnessed to positively impact the things that matter most to them and their stakeholders. https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-dolding-ccxp/

Steve Wells is a global futurist who helps organisations and their leaders improve their future change readiness through the delivery of horizon scanning executive education. The co-editor and a contributing author to seven books on the emerging future, Steve is expertly placed to identify the trends most likely to present opportunity for internal communication in 2024. In this episode, Cat, Jen, Dom and Steve chat about the shifting nature of work and the risks and opportunities for business in the year ahead.   Takeaways Business leaders need to be aware of the interconnections between geopolitical frictions, cyber attacks, and elections. Internal communicators play a crucial role in scenario planning and navigating uncertainty. Embracing complexity and agility is essential in the face of rapid change. Internal comms can become the new leadership function, driving understanding and collaboration.   About Steve Wells Steve is a global futurist and founder of Informing Choices Ltd, a foresight business focused on helping organisations improve their future change readiness through delivering thought provoking speeches and presentations, executive education workshops, and horizon scanning studies. He is also the co-editor and a contributing author to seven books on the emerging future. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-wells-futurist-speaker/  

In this episode, we turn the spotlight on IoIC CEO, Jennifer Sproul to hear her reflections on how the internal communication profession has changed since she took the helm in 2017. And where she feels the emergent opportunities lie.     Find out more about IoIC |  Website: https://www.ioic.org.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-of-internal-communication Twitter: https://twitter.com/IoICNews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ioic_uk/ Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/IoICupdates

Perry Timms is the founder and CEO of People and Transformational HR. He was ranked HR's Most Influential Thinker in 2022 by HR Magazine. An accomplished author and TEDx speaker, his 30+ year career focused on people, business change and performance means he now sits in the HR Most Influential Hall of Fame. In this episode, he shares his observations about the changing nature of work and explores the business case for agility, both as an organisational practice and as a mindset.   More importantly, he sets out why internal communication has such a centre stage role to play as we navigate a very different future of work.    Show notes Find out more about Perry:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/perrytimms/ Find out more about PTHR:  https://pthr.co.uk/ Watch the Barry-Wehmiller video Perry mentioned: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=or6YoXfHWSE

Dr. Iain Wilton is a former ministerial special adviser who has held several senior public policy, corporate communications and government relations roles - in organisations including the BBC and the Royal Statistical Society.  In this episode, he shares why it's important for organisations to stay abreast of political developments to minimise risk. We also find out which political risks pose the most threat to UK industry in the years ahead.   A key way for internal communicators to provide strategic value to their employers is to demonstrate awareness and understanding of the external factors driving change in the way we work today. We hope you'll agree Iain provides huge food for thought and plenty for our senior executives to consider as they navigate the path ahead.  

Scott McInnes is the Managing Director of Inspiring Change, a consultancy that helps organisations build and maintain engaging and thriving work cultures. With a prior background in internal communication, he is expertly placed to share how and why the way we communicate at work is integral to culture.   In this episode, Scott shares his thoughts as to whether work culture is driven by the C-suite or whether it manifests from the ground up.   Scott, Jen, Dom and Cat also dissect the primary role internal communication has to play in nurturing positive working environments where people are inspired to give their best.  

Ineke Botter is a rarity. In what was, and what continues to be, a male-dominated industry, she is one of the very few female leaders to have led the organisations that designed, built and launched the mobile networks we rely on today for always-on digital connectivity.   Her work has taken her around the world, from the former Eastern Bloc to Europe and from there to the Middle East, Central Asia and beyond. More poignantly, she's led organisations and teams in some of the most extreme and hostile situations, surviving political unrest, war, terrorist threats and more.   In this episode, Ineke shares what she's learned about effective leadership during times of adversity. Most importantly, she presents what she's learned about how to adapt the style and tone of leadership communication when lives are at risk.  

Earlier in 2023, Seth Godin published his 25th book. Hot on the heels of a yearlong involvement with The Carbon Almanac project, the release of The Song of Significance seemed urgent and timely.   In this special episode, Cat chats with Seth about the catalyst for The Song of Significance and what led him to write it. This is a conversation about work, the impact of artificial intelligence and how weird is the new normal.  It addresses the essential role of human connection in the future of work and more pivotally for you, our listeners, the expanding opportunity for internal communicators. We urgently need to create new conditions for work, ones in which people can flourish. How we communicate with and show up for one another is an integral part of this, so we really hope you enjoy the listen.  Show notes   Find out more about Seth Godin: https://www.sethgodin.com/  Find out more about The Song of Significance: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/458050/the-song-of-significance-by-godin-seth/9780241655542 

Illana Adamson is a leading sustainability consultant and educator, working with business and non-profits to introduce science-based sustainability initiatives, actions and behaviours into their organisations. She moves beyond the greenwashing to surface action that actually counts. In this episode, Illana provides us with a progressive definition of what sustainability is and why it's a business issue. She also shares why she believes the role of internal communication is integral to long-term organisational sustainability. Tune in to hear from one of the UK's leading voices in sustainability to learn about the opportunity for internal communication.

Dan Pontefract is a renowned leadership strategist, author, and keynote speaker. With more than two decades of experience in senior roles in the technology industry, he speaks and writes on the topic of people at work and how to create more inclusive, engaging workplaces.   His latest book – Work-life Bloom – explores the key elements that humans need to flourish at work. Most poignantly, he explores the optimal mix of work-life factors needed to create fulfilling lives and careers.   In this episode, Cat, Jen and Dom invite Dan to share what inspired him to write the book and to unpick the requirement to maintain healthy boundaries between work and the rest of life. How we work has been reshaped by the pandemic; Dan shares his thoughts for the role internal communication has in helping maintain thriving teams.

What if there were data to prove the business case for internal communication? What if we could see in fine detail the impact of internal communication on employee experience and engagement? Well, now there is and now we can. In July 2023, the IoIC launched brand new research in partnership with Employee Research and Experience Agency, Karian and Box. The IC Index is the first of its kind analysis of the value internal communication provides to employees across the UK. If you haven't already done so, you can download your copy here. In this bonus episode, Jen, Dom and Cat welcome Susanna Holten, Senior Consultant with Ipsos Karian and Box to discuss the report's findings and explore what this means for the future of internal communication. They unpick the highlights and showcase opportunities for internal communication professionals to add even more value to their organisations.

Many of you will recognise this episode's guest, Katie Macaulay. She's the Managing Director of award-winning Internal Communication agency AB Communications and host of the The Internal Comms Podcast. Katie chats with Jen, Dom and Cat to explain what she's uncovered through her work with The Acid Test Audit, a tool that uncovers discrepancies in communication and flaws in strategic alignment. With an expert view, she shares her views on the current challenges faced by Internal Communicators and the opportunities she believes lie ahead. 

When Jen Sproul met Kevin Green at a conference in late 2022, they immediately hit it off. With a long-standing career in HR, staffing and employment, Kevin has an expert view on how to accelerate inclusion, engagement and performance at work. Today, Kevin is Chief People Officer of First Bus, one of the UK's largest bus operators, with some 14,000 staff. As labour markets continue to perplex leaders across the board, it's increasingly obvious that organisations must rethink the role people play in business sustainability and resilience. Kevin is leading the way in this area. First Bus has initiated a transformational people strategy to place colleagues and customers at the heart of its commercial goals. In this episode, Jen, Cat, Dom and Kevin discuss the opportunities for internal communicators as we move into the future of work.

Spending months underwater will inevitably teach you a huge amount about the role of communication in effective teamwork. And this is what this episode's guest learned during his military career serving as a US Navy Nuclear Submarine Officer. Ever since, Jon Rennie has been fascinated by leadership communication. With various civilian leadership roles under his belt, today, in addition to his day-job as CEO of Peak Demand Inc, Jon enthusiastically writes, podcasts and keynotes about leadership and leadership communication. We were keen to hear his ideas and hope you'll agree this conversation is one of our most thought-provoking episodes yet.

To mark World Environment Day, it's a special treat to hear from co-authors of the best-selling book Sustainable Marketing, Michelle Carvill and Gemma Butler. Since their book was published in early 2021, Michelle and Gemma have gone on to host the ‘Can Marketing Save the Planet' podcast series. This has led to many fascinating conversations across the marketing domain. When organisations have such a primary role to play in the race to net-zero, we were keen to hear Michelle and Gemma's views on the evolution of responsible business and the opportunities for both marketing and internal communication as we push towards a carbon-neutral economy.

Bill Quirke was our very first guest, when we launched this podcast back in 2021. As author of the celebrated book, ‘Making the Connections: Using Internal Communication to Turn Strategy Into Action', he's an influential figure within the IC field. Given all that's unfolded in the past two years, we wanted to catch up with Bill to hear his latest reflections on the risks and opportunities for the internal communication profession. With so much change and adaptation required by organisations today, what might internal communication look like five years from now? Tune in to hear from our profession's most seasoned expert. 

In 2017, Georgie Mack co-founded the mental health charity Minds @ Work. Her goal was to normalise long-overdue conversations around mental health in the workplace. She also wanted employers to examine how their workplaces were contributing to anxiety, stress and mental ill-health. We've come a long way since then. Today workforce health and wellbeing are priority agenda items for any discerning internal communication and engagement team. But a primary societal fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic is a marked rise in anxiety and low mood. In this special episode, recorded to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, Jen, Dom and Cat chat with Georgie about what more employers should be doing to address mental health issues at work. And of course, the opportunity for internal communicators to add even more value in this vital area.